Lionel Messi’s Hamstring Woes Leave Inter Miami Fans Sweating
Getting injured early in a game? That’s got to be on Messi’s list of least favorite things to do, right next to facing Pepe in a Spanish derby. But alas, the world’s favorite Argentine magician found himself limping off the pitch during Inter Miami’s Leagues Cup match against Necaxa in the 11th minute. Yes, you read that right, the 11th minute. The Argentine icon doesn’t leave games early unless something is seriously off.
What Happened to Messi?
Messi being Messi, you’d expect him to dodge defenders like they’re cones in a training drill. However, this time, two Necaxa defenders decided to test physics by sandwiching him. The outcome? A hamstring tweak that saw the legend trotting back to the bench faster than his usual jog after scoring a hat trick. According to coach Javier Mascherano, the World Cup winner felt a “pull” in his hamstring but, and here’s the classic line every coach loves, “it doesn’t seem serious.” Yeah, sure. We all remember how Neymar’s “minor injury” turned into a Netflix documentary worth of sidelining moments.
Can Miami Keep Floating Without Him?
Look, Inter Miami fans are already on edge. This man brought a tsunami of expectations to a club that was once as relevant in MLS drama as Toronto FC’s trophy cabinet post-2017. With 18 goals and seven assists under his belt this season, Messi has been Miami’s GPS to MLS respectability. Losing him, even for a game or two, feels like hitting a pothole on a smooth highway drive.
Post Messi’s exit, Miami managed to grab the lead through Telasco Segovia (yes, we’re Googling him too), but imagine the strain on Miami’s lineup if Messi is out for their upcoming matches. Jordi Alba surely can’t be expected to pull match-winning headers every week.
Will Messi Be Back for the Next Match?
Miami’s next Leagues Cup gig is against Pumas UNAM, and everyone and their dog is waiting to hear if Messi will grace the field. But honestly, if you’re a betting person, don’t hold your breath. Hamstrings are notoriously unforgiving, especially for players who’ve been sprinting around European grounds for over two decades.
Mascherano confirmed that Messi’s evaluation is scheduled for August 3. Medical tests will decide whether he’s limited to FIFA 25 simulations or if he can get back out there and feed Rodrigo De Paul perfect crosses down the left flank.
The Big Picture
Inter Miami bagged a satisfying, albeit nerve-wracking, win post-Messi’s injury, beating Necaxa on penalties (thanks to Jordi Alba’s heroics). But any extended absence for La Pulga could derail their season faster than an unregulated VAR decision. Here’s hoping the examination report doesn’t turn into every Miami fan’s nightmare scenario.
For now, Messi lovers, keep an eye out for updates. We’ll know soon whether it’s a minor pull or the kind of injury that keeps us glued to his Instagram Stories for workout videos instead of match highlights.
